Chanel’s latest perfume is born out of the spirit of liberation; Vanessa Craft rediscovers the woman who inspired it
Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel believed that “people’s lives are an enigma”, and she certainly lived by that statement. Although her name is synonymous with iconography and an unparalleled fashion history, she changed the narrative of her past as frequently as the threads in her sewing machine. In recounting her story, the revolutionary designer often altered details about her past, such as her date of birth or the years she spent in an orphanage as a child. In early adulthood, she started using the name Coco—there are a variety of different stories out there as to why. What really mattered to Chanel, it seemed, was living in a way that she had designed. “I have chosen the woman I want to be and am,” she said.
This kind of self-aware rebellion is a compelling facet of a jewel of a life. Justine Picardie, author of Chanel: Her Life (Steidl, 2011), says she was capable of “remaking history like she remade the sleeves of a jacket, unfastening its seams and cutting its threads and then sewing it all back together again.” Indeed, Chanel reimagined not just her destiny but the way women could dress.
There’s magic to be mined here, so it’s no surprise that the venerable House of Chanel is launching a perfume this fall that was inspired by such a headstrong and passionate woman. Called Gabrielle Chanel Eau de Parfum, it’s essentially a fragrance for the woman who chooses her own path.
This story is from the September 2017 edition of Elle India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2017 edition of Elle India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Bridal Trends, 2024 Edition
Bralettes, corsets and mermaid skirts emerge as the new must-haves when it comes to wedding dressing
All The Feels
Maahi Shah takes a deeper look at the big little moments in a bride's life as she prepares for her wedding day
ISLAND ESCAPADE
Here's why Fiji is the ultimate destination to celebrate your love.
ROMANTIC ESCAPES
Wondering where to head for a honeymoon getaway? Isha Mayer recommends five luxurious destinations for your honeymoon
The Taste Of Weddings
What goes behind planning those extravagant grazing tables and indulgent bites at weddings? Top gourmet caterers let Isha Mayer in on their processes
Challenging Convention One Ritual at a Time
Maahi Shah speaks to five female priests who have been breaking new ground while upholding faith and pursuing a passion for learning
FIJI: A TROPICAL FOR INDIAN HAVEN WEDDINGS
From pristine beaches to cultural familiarity, discover why Fiji is the perfect destination for Indian weddings.
MAKE YOUR WEDDING FANTASY A REALITY
The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace offers luxurious venues, exquisite dining and unforgettable moments
SHINING BRIGHT EVERYWHERE
Lab-grown diamonds for every occasion—luxury and affordability
BRIDAL BEAUTY, REDEFINED
Christine Ko, CEO of Moira Cosmetics, shares her insights on makeup for brides and the art of achieving radiant skin.